A recall so serious automaker warns: Stop driving these [Subaru] cars NOW

The automaker is recalling more than 48,500 vehicles over a potential steering column defect so serious, they shouldn't even be driven to a mechanic.

The recall, which began Friday, affects 2016-17 Legacies and Outbacks manufactured between Feb. 29 and May 6, according to announcements from the National Highway Transportation Safety Administration and on Subaru's website.